The incident occurred at the BSP office in Lucknow as Mayawati was delivering remarks on party strategy and recent political developments. Smoke quickly filled the hall, prompting immediate action by security personnel, who used fire extinguishers to control the situation. The press conference was subsequently called off, and attendees were evacuated safely.
According to party sources, the press briefing was scheduled to address multiple issues, including the party’s upcoming electoral strategy in Uttar Pradesh and Mayawati’s response to a recent gathering of BJP’s Brahmin legislators. The BSP chief had previously highlighted the need for respect and recognition for the Brahmin community and reaffirmed that the BSP would contest all elections independently, leaving no room for confusion regarding alliances.
The short circuit occurred against the backdrop of political tension following a meeting of around 45–50 BJP Brahmin MLAs in Lucknow on December 23. The gathering, reportedly held at Kushinagar BJP MLA P.N. Pathak’s residence on his wife’s birthday, featured litti-chokha and vrat meals and sparked speculation over its political significance. Sources indicated the MLAs aimed to voice concerns over perceived marginalization despite the community’s significant presence in 30 key districts of Uttar Pradesh.
Security arrangements were quickly reinforced, with party and administrative personnel managing the evacuation and ensuring no injuries occurred. Fire brigade teams remained on standby to prevent escalation, while media personnel were guided out of the building safely.
Political analysts note that Mayawati’s BSP has historically leveraged Brahmin–Dalit social engineering to consolidate power, as demonstrated in the 2007 Assembly elections. However, the shifting political landscape over the years has seen Brahmin voters increasingly support rival parties, including the SP and BJP, making engagement with the community strategically significant for the BSP.
The abrupt end to the press conference prevented further discussion on these issues, leaving analysts and party supporters speculating on the next steps for Mayawati and her electoral strategy in the upcoming state elections.
